Jimmy Kimmel Live! is still on an indefinite hiatus after comments from host Jimmy Kimmel went viral for all the wrong reasons last week. The comments went viral, connecting the thread of the killer of conservative activist Charlie Kirk with the former President Donald Trump’s MAGA movement. This relationship led to direct consequences almost instantly. Nexstar, the largest publicly traded media company, certainly was pleased by Kimmel’s rapid response. They had a huge moment when they chose to show preempt the show on a Tuesday.
The decision by Nexstar coincided with Kimmel’s attendance at the Broadway Opening Night of Jeff Ross’ “Take A Banana For The Ride” on August 18, 2025, held at the Nederlander Theatre in New York City. The high-profile gala drew hundreds of powerful and influential guests, but not even Kimmel’s warm welcome there could mask the mounting controversy over his callousness.
In response, Nexstar swiftly coordinated a broadcast blackout to stop people from watching Jimmy Kimmel Live! This ambitious act underscores the need for the important discussion taking place at the intersection of comedy and political discourse. The network’s decision, in addition to echoing recent decisions by Sinclair, serves to underscore the surprisingly fragile state of political discourse in media today.
Kimmel’s comments raised an important point on the subtle art of using humor in a deeply political space. Initial responses His portrayal of the person who killed Kirk has opened a national dialogue over discussion and debate on audiences, critics, and activists.
“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will be available nationwide on multiple Disney-owned streaming products… – Nexstar